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Bangladesh is a country full of talented and inspiring people who have made a mark both at home and around the world. From Nobel Prize winners and famous cricketers to award-winning singers, mountaineers, and architects, Bangladesh has produced many personalities who are well-known for their outstanding work. As of 2025, several Bangladeshi individuals have gained international attention for their achievements in fields like politics, sports, music, arts, and activism. For example, Professor Muhammad Yunus won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in microfinance, while Shakib Al Hasan is ranked among the top cricket all-rounders by the ICC. These famous personalities from Bangladesh not only bring pride to the nation but also inspire the younger generation to dream big and work hard.
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All Time Famous Personalities from Bangladesh
From the visionary leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to the groundbreaking work of Muhammad Yunus in microfinance and the global sports achievements of Shakib Al Hasan, these personalities have played an important role in Bangladesh. Here are some more famous Bangladeshi leaders you can know of to improve your general knowledge:
| Name | Field | Achievement |
| Muhammad Yunus | Microfinance | Nobel Peace Prize 2006 |
| Sheikh Mujibur Rahman | Politics | Founding Father of Bangladesh |
| Shakib Al Hasan | Sports (Cricket) | ICC No. 1 All-rounder in ODIs |
| Runa Laila | Music (Playback Singing) | Performed in over 10 languages |
| Sabina Yasmin | Music (Playback Singing) | Multiple National Film Awards |
| Khaleda Zia | Politics | First Female Prime Minister of Bangladesh |
| Sheikh Hasina | Politics | Current Prime Minister of Bangladesh |
| Hussain Muhammad Ershad | Politics | Former President of Bangladesh |
| Tarique Rahman | Politics | Vice President of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party |
| Abul Maal Abdul Muhith | Economics & Politics | Former Finance Minister of Bangladesh |
| Amir Hossain Amu | Politics | A prominent member of the Awami League |
| Tofail Ahmed | Politics | Senior politician and member of the Awami League |
| Begum Matia Chowdhury | Politics & Agriculture | Former Minister of Agriculture |
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, widely known as the Father of the Nation in Bangladesh, was an important leader behind the country’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. Born on 17 March 1920 in Tungipara, Gopalganj, he became active in politics as a student and later founded the Awami League, which led the movement for Bengali rights. His famous Six-Point Movement in 1966 demanded autonomy for East Pakistan, gaining massive public support. On 7 March 1971, his historic speech inspired the nation to fight for freedom. After the Liberation War, he became the first Prime Minister and later the President of Bangladesh, playing a major role in building the new nation. He introduced a constitution based on democracy, socialism, nationalism, and secularism. Sadly, on 15 August 1975, Sheikh Mujib was assassinated along with most of his family in a military coup. His legacy lives on, especially through his daughter Sheikh Hasina, who later became the Prime Minister. Known as Bangabandhu (“Friend of Bengal”), his name is remembered with deep respect and love by the people of Bangladesh.
| Full Name | Sheikh Mujibur Rahman |
| Nickname/Title | Bangabandhu (“Friend of Bengal”) |
| Known As | Father of the Nation (Bangladesh) |
| Political Party | Awami League |
| Major Role | Leader of Bangladesh Liberation Movement |
| First Position after Independence | Prime Minister of Bangladesh (1972–1975) |
| Later Position | President of Bangladesh (1975) |
Muhammad Yunus
Muhammad Yunus is a world-famous Bangladeshi social entrepreneur, economist, and Nobel Peace Prize winner who is best known for founding Grameen Bank and introducing the idea of microcredit—small loans given to poor people without any collateral. Born on 28 June 1940 in Chittagong, Bangladesh, Yunus studied economics in Dhaka and later earned a Ph.D. in economics from Vanderbilt University in the USA. In the 1970s, he started lending small amounts of money to poor women in rural Bangladesh to help them start small businesses and break free from poverty. This idea became a global model for poverty reduction. In 2006, Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank jointly won the Nobel Peace Prize, making him the first Bangladeshi Nobel Laureate. He has also received many international honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom (USA) and the Congressional Gold Medal. Through his work in social business, he has inspired millions of people around the world. Today, he is respected as a symbol of innovation, compassion, and hope for the poor.
| Full Name | Muhammad Yunus |
| Profession | Economist, Social Entrepreneur, Banker |
| Known For | Microfinance and Microcredit |
| Major Achievement | Founded Grameen Bank |
| Nobel Prize | Nobel Peace Prize (2006) |
| Global Recognition | Presidential Medal of Freedom, Congressional Gold Medal (USA) |
| Education | Ph.D. in Economics, Vanderbilt University (USA) |
Shakib Al Hasan
Shakib Al Hasan is one of the greatest cricketers in the history of Bangladesh and is widely regarded as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket. Born on 24 March 1987 in Magura, Khulna, Shakib began his cricket journey at a young age and made his international debut in 2006. Since then, he has been an important player for the Bangladesh national team. He is known for his powerful batting, smart bowling, and outstanding fielding. Over the years, Shakib has often been ranked as the No. 1 all-rounder in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20Is by the International Cricket Council (ICC). He played a major role in many of Bangladesh’s biggest victories, including in the ICC World Cups and Asia Cup matches. Apart from cricket, he is also involved in charity work and business. Shakib is a national icon who has inspired millions of young players across the country.
| Full Name | Shakib Al Hasan |
| Profession | Cricketer (All-Rounder) |
| Batting Style | Left-handed |
| Bowling Style | Left-arm orthodox spin |
| International Debut | 2006 (ODI) |
| Major Role | Important Player in Bangladesh National Cricket Team |
| ICC Rankings | Often ranked No. 1 all-rounder in ODI & T20I |
| World Cup Performances | Star performer in 2019 World Cup |
| Notable Achievements | 14,000+ international runs & 700+ wickets (as of 2025) |
Find Out Some Interesting Facts about Bangladesh Here!
Runa Laila
Runa Laila is a legendary Bangladeshi singer who is loved for her melodious voice and powerful performances. Born on 17 November 1952 in Sylhet (then East Pakistan, now Bangladesh), she began her music career at a very young age. Runa Laila became famous across South Asia for her songs in Bangla, Hindi, Urdu, and many other languages, making her an international star. Her breakthrough came in the 1970s when her songs topped charts in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. She is especially known for the hit song “Dama Dam Mast Qalandar” and her classical and modern playback singing in films. Over the decades, she has recorded thousands of songs and has received many national and international awards, including the Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer multiple times. Runa Laila has also served as a UN Goodwill Ambassador and is respected as a cultural icon who united people through music. Her voice still touches hearts around the world.
| Full Name | Runa Laila |
| Profession | Singer |
| Music Style | Playback singing, Ghazal, Classical, Pop |
| Languages Sung In | Bangla, Hindi, Urdu, English, and more |
| Famous Song | “Dama Dam Mast Qalandar” |
| Notable Awards | Multiple National Film Awards (Bangladesh) |
Sabina Yasmin
Sabina Yasmin is a legendary Bangladeshi singer, known for her beautiful and soulful voice. Born on 4 September 1954 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, she has been one of the leading playback singers in the country for decades. Sabina Yasmin’s career began in the 1970s, and she quickly became famous for her remarkable ability to sing in various genres, including classical, modern, and folk music. Over the years, she has recorded thousands of songs for Bangla films and radio, becoming a household name in Bangladesh. Some of her popular songs include “Amar Sonar Bangla” and “Ami Chirodin Tumi”. She has received numerous awards, including the prestigious National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer multiple times. Sabina Yasmin is admired not only for her vocal talent but also for her contribution to enriching the cultural heritage of Bangladesh.
| Full Name | Sabina Yasmin |
| Profession | Singer (Playback singer) |
| Music Style | Classical, Modern, Folk |
| Famous Songs | “Ami Chirodin Tumi”, “Amar Sonar Bangla”, “Shono Go” |
| Number of Songs Recorded | Thousands of songs for Bangla films, TV, and radio |
| Major Achievements | Multiple National Film Awards (Best Female Playback Singer) |
Khaleda Zia
Khaleda Zia is a significant political leader and the first woman to serve as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Born on 5 August 1945 in Dinajpur, Bangladesh, she became involved in politics after the death of her husband, Ziaur Rahman, who was the President of Bangladesh. Khaleda Zia took over the leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), a major political party in the country, and became the Prime Minister in 1991, serving two terms. She played a key role in shaping Bangladesh’s political landscape in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Under her leadership, Bangladesh experienced significant political and economic changes, although her tenure was marked by political instability and conflict with her rival Sheikh Hasina. Khaleda Zia’s influence in Bangladeshi politics remains strong, even after facing legal challenges and imprisonment. She is seen as an important figure in the nation’s political history.
| Full Name | Khaleda Zia |
| Political Party | Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) |
| Role | First Female Prime Minister of Bangladesh |
| Tenure as Prime Minister | 1991–1996, 2001–2006 |
| Major Achievements | Led Bangladesh through key political changes |
Sheikh Hasina
Sheikh Hasina is the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh and one of the longest-serving political leaders in the country. Born on 28 September 1947 in Tungipara, Gopalganj, she is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation and the first President of Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina entered politics in the 1980s after her father’s assassination and became the leader of the Awami League. She served as Prime Minister for the first time from 1996 to 2001 and later from 2009 to the present. Her leadership has been crucial in Bangladesh’s growth, particularly in sectors like education, infrastructure, and women’s empowerment. Sheikh Hasina has also played a significant role in improving Bangladesh’s international relations and its standing on the global stage. Despite facing challenges, including political opposition and family tragedies, she continues to be a dominant figure in Bangladeshi politics.
| Full Name | Sheikh Hasina |
| Political Party | Awami League |
| Role | Prime Minister of Bangladesh |
| Tenure as Prime Minister | 1996–2001, 2009–present |
| Major Achievements | Growth in education, infrastructure, and economy |
| International Influence | Strong presence in global diplomacy and international relations |
| Legacy | Long-serving leader and key figure in Bangladesh’s modern development |
Tofail Ahmed
Tofail Ahmed is a prominent political leader and a senior member of the Awami League, one of the major political parties in Bangladesh. Born on 29 December 1943 in Bhola, Bangladesh, Tofail Ahmed has had a long and impactful career in the country’s political landscape. He was an important figure during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, supporting the independence movement against Pakistan. Over the years, he has served in various ministerial positions, including Minister for Commerce, Minister for Education, and Minister for Industry. Tofail Ahmed is known for his contributions to economic development, especially in the areas of trade and industry. He has played an important role in shaping the policies of the Awami League and remains a respected leader. Tofail Ahmed’s experience and influence in Bangladeshi politics make him one of the country’s most significant figures.
| Name | Tofail Ahmed |
| Field | Politics |
| Notable Works | Minister of Commerce, influential political leader |
| Recognition | An important role in shaping Bangladesh’s political landscape |
Abul Maal Abdul Muhith
Abul Maal Abdul Muhith is a highly respected Bangladeshi economist, politician, and public servant, known for his significant contributions to the country’s financial and economic development. Born on 25 January 1934 in Sylhet, Bangladesh, he has had a long and distinguished career, serving in various governmental roles. He is perhaps best known for his tenure as the Finance Minister of Bangladesh from 2009 to 2018 under the Awami League government. During his time in office, he played a key role in shaping Bangladesh’s economic policies, contributing to the country’s impressive economic growth. Abdul Muhith was instrumental in introducing the national budget and implementing various economic reforms. His leadership helped Bangladesh achieve better financial management and foreign investment. He is also known for his extensive work in public administration and his contributions to international organizations. Abdul Muhith’s legacy includes being one of the country’s most respected economic thinkers and a key architect of Bangladesh’s economic progress.
| Full Name | Abul Maal Abdul Muhith |
| Political Party | Awami League |
| Role | Economist, Former Finance Minister |
| Tenure as Finance Minister | 2009–2018 |
| Major Contributions | Shaping Bangladesh’s economic policies, national budget, and financial reforms |
| International Experience | Worked in various international organizations |
| Legacy | A respected figure in Bangladesh’s financial history |
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Famous Personalities from Bangladesh in Different Fields
Here are some more famous personalities from Bangladesh who have contributed to various fields of development:-
| Name | Field | Achievement |
| Taslima Nasrin | Literature | Feminist writer advocating for women’s rights |
| Fazlur Rahman Khan | Engineering | Architectural innovator, designed Willis Tower |
| Jibanananda Das | Literature | Pioneer of modern Bengali poetry |
| Maqsudul Alam | Science | Biotechnologist known for genome sequencing |
| Arun Kumar Basak | Science | Visionary physicist and professor |
| Ahmed Sofa | Literature | Influential writer, thinker and public intellectual |
| Shahidul Alam | Photography | Acclaimed photojournalist and social activist |
| Zahir Raihan | Film | Pioneering filmmaker and social commentator |
| Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain | Literature | Feminist writer and advocate for women’s education |
Famous Personalities from Bangladesh Male
The table presents a few famous personalities from Bangladesh males. These famous personalities have made significant contributions in various fields, ranging from cinema to politics. Let’s take a quick look at their names and descriptions.
| Name | Description |
| Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani | He was a leading Muslim advocate of Bengali independence |
| Surya Sen | He was elected President of the Indian National Congress in 1918. |
| Sri Chinmoy | Sri Chinmoy established meditation centres around the world. |
| Abu Sayed | He is a famous singer, writer, actor, and producer. |
| Bulbul Ahmed | Bulbul Ahmed is an actor and director. |
| Chowdhury Muhammad Shahriar Emon | He was widely known as the “Prince of Bangladeshi Cinema” and the “First Superstar of Modern Dhallywood. |
- Humayun Ahmed: Humayun Ahmed was a prolific Bengali writer, known for his novels, dramas and films. His famous series, such as the Himu and Misir Ali series, have been highly appreciated in Bengali literature.
- Ferdous Wahid: Ferdous Wahid is another famous personality from Bangladesh. He is known for the development of Bangladeshi pop music, known for his distinctive style and significant contributions to the music scene.
- Tahsan Rahman Khan: Tahsan Rahman Khan is a multifaceted artist who excels as a singer-songwriter, actor, and composer. His work in the Bangladeshi music and television industry has earned him widespread acclaim, making him a household name in Bangladesh.
FAQs
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The Sundarbans, Cox’s Bazar, Lalbagh Fort, Bandarban, Rangamati, Saint Martin, Paharpur, Kuakata, Gaur, Bagerhat, Sonargaon, Comilla, Barisal, Puthia.
The old name of Bangladesh is East Pakistan.
Shakib Khan is one of the most famous Bangladeshi film actors. He made his debut with Anonto Bhalobasha.
On 14 April, which coincided with Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), the BBC declared Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, as the Greatest Bengali of All Time, based on votes from Bengalis around the world.
Interesting Reads
This was everything about famous personalities from Bangladesh. If you want to know more about other Famous Personalities then visit our General Knowledge page!
